CAVERSHAM Lakes Watersports park announced that it was closing yesterday, Tuesday, March 26, after three years of operation.
The centre has now been forced to close with immediate effect by South Oxfordshire Council (SOC) due to planning conflicts.
Earlier this year SOC denied retroactive planning permission to the site which they said had not sought the requisite consent from the council.
SOC then began pursuing enforcement action after the venue’s owners, Cosmonaut, sought retroactive consent but was denied.
Now a statement has been posted to the Caversham Lakes website explaining that the closure had been “forced upon” it due to an “unneccessary” planning process.
The statement thanked its staff and extended apologies to customers, explaining that the closure would result in the loss of 150 summer jobs as well as cancelled.
It also explained that owners remained “hopeful” for change, and suggested that a change in leadership at the council would provide a chance to “revisit” the decision.
The statement posted to the Caversham lakes website explained: “Throughout our journey, Caversham Lakes has touched and inspired thousands of individuals, families, groups, charities, businesses, and clubs.
“This is testament to the amazing staff who have made it happen, but also the natural beauty of the lake being surrounded by nature at its most natural state for everyone to enjoy.
It continues: “Regrettably, the council’s unwavering stance against our existence, despite overwhelming support and evidence, has led to this unfortunate outcome.
“We are devastated, both personally and for our community, including the loss of 150 summer jobs, cancelled bookings for local businesses, and the disappointment to thousands of users of the lake that now have nowhere to use locally.”
It added that: “The lake has always had recreational use for general public access and a retrospective application should not have been needed and was forced on us because they didn’t want such a great leisure venue to exist.
Despite our efforts and the outpouring of support, it seems the council remains steadfast in its opposition to our vision.
“We believe in the coexistence of humans and nature, yet the council’s actions suggest otherwise.”
The statement concluded: “To all those who have cherished our lake, we bid you farewell for now. We are grateful for your support and hope to see you again in the future. Until then, we wish you all the best in finding alternative summer destinations.”
The statement is available to read in full via: cavershamlakes.co.uk
